One

Definition

The term "one" refers to the first and smallest whole number, representing a single unit or entity. It is used in counting, measurement, and as a pronoun to refer to a person or thing previously mentioned or easily identified.

Parts of Speech

• Numeral
• Pronoun
• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wʌn/
• Respelling: WUN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /wʌn/
• Respelling: WUN

Etymology

The word "one" originates from the Old English "ān," meaning "a single, solitary, or unique," derived from Proto-Germanic "*ainaz" and Proto-Indo-European "*oi-no" (one, unique). Its modern usage evolved to include both numeric and pronoun applications.

Derivatives

• Once (adverb)
• Oneness (noun)
• Onefold (adjective)
• Only (adjective/adverb)
• One-sided (adjective)

Synonyms

• Single
• Unique
• Individual

Antonyms

• Multiple
• Many
• None

Usage

The term "one" is versatile, used in numerical contexts ("There is one apple left"), as a pronoun ("One should always be honest"), or as an adjective ("She is my one true friend").

Related Terms

• First: Coming before all others in time or order.
• Unity: The state of being united or joined as a whole.
• Individual: A single human being as distinct from a group.

Detailed Definitions

Numeral

• The number representing a single unit: The first cardinal number in the counting sequence.
  • Example: "There is one car in the parking lot."

Pronoun

• Used to refer to a person or thing: Often used in a formal or indefinite sense.
  • Example: "One must always strive for excellence."

Noun

• A single person or thing: Represents individuality or uniqueness.
  • Example: "He is the one I’ve been looking for."

Adjective

• Single or solitary: Used to emphasize uniqueness or singularity.
  • Example: "She is the one person I can rely on."